16 December Traditions Families Love Adding to Their Year

From decorating the tree to baking festive treats, December brings the chance to make lasting memories. If you’re looking to add something new to your family’s routine this year, there are plenty of fun traditions to explore. These activities can help strengthen bonds and bring extra cheer to the season.

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Family Christmas Tree Decorating Tradition

Decorating the Christmas tree together is a classic family activity that brings everyone into the holiday spirit. It’s the perfect opportunity to bond over ornaments that hold special memories and to create new ones. Some families enjoy listening to festive music while decorating, while others may have a tradition of telling stories about each ornament. The experience can also include making homemade decorations, adding a personal touch to the tree. Once finished, the family can admire their work, creating lasting memories that become part of the holiday tradition each year.

This tradition often sparks excitement and joy, especially for younger family members who are eager to help. Whether you have a real tree or an artificial one, the process of decorating together can turn into a fun event that everyone looks forward to. For added enjoyment, consider hosting a tree-decorating party with hot cocoa and treats. This can help make the task feel more like a celebration. It’s a meaningful way to kick off the holiday season with loved ones.

Baking Holiday Treats as a Family

Baking holiday treats is a tradition that allows families to come together in the kitchen and create delicious memories. Whether it’s cookies, gingerbread houses, or pies, the options for festive baking are endless. This tradition offers a chance for everyone to get involved, from mixing ingredients to decorating the treats. Many families enjoy making their favorite recipes passed down through generations, which makes the activity feel even more special. The best part? Enjoying the sweet treats together once they’re done!

Baking can also be a learning experience for younger children, teaching them about measurements, timing, and following instructions. The kitchen fills with warm scents that add to the holiday atmosphere, creating a cozy environment for family bonding. It’s an activity that’s fun, hands-on, and perfect for creating lasting memories. After baking, families often share their treats with neighbors or friends, spreading holiday cheer. This simple tradition can be a great way to celebrate the season and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

Advent Calendar Countdown Tradition

An Advent calendar is a fun and meaningful way to count down the days until Christmas, especially for families with children. Each day, a small door or window is opened to reveal a chocolate, toy, or festive activity. This simple tradition adds excitement to each December day and helps build anticipation for the holiday. Many families choose calendars with meaningful activities written inside, like family movie nights or holiday crafts. It’s a small but special ritual that becomes a treasured part of the season.

The Advent calendar tradition can be tailored to fit your family’s interests, whether it’s a handmade calendar or a store-bought one. Some families even create their own calendars, adding unique touches like handwritten notes or surprise gifts behind each window. It encourages patience and excitement as children eagerly wait to see what each day brings. The practice fosters a sense of unity and joy, making it a great addition to any December routine. Plus, it’s a tradition that can be adapted for all ages.

Driving or Walking to See Christmas Lights

Visiting Christmas light displays is a beloved tradition in many families, offering a magical way to experience the holiday season. Whether driving through a neighborhood filled with lights or visiting a large public display, it’s an experience that brings joy to people of all ages. The sparkling lights create a festive atmosphere, filling everyone with holiday cheer. Many families make it an event by bringing along snacks or playing holiday music in the car. The excitement of seeing beautifully decorated homes or themed light shows makes this a tradition everyone can enjoy.

For added fun, consider stopping at a local holiday market or enjoying some hot cocoa during the trip. This tradition is a perfect way to get into the festive spirit without spending a lot of money. It’s an easy way to make cherished memories, especially for families with young children who are excited by the colorful displays. Some families even take it a step further by competing to see who can find the most impressive display. The lights bring a sense of wonder and delight, making it an annual tradition worth repeating.

Holiday Movie Marathon Tradition

Watching holiday movies together is an excellent way for families to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. Whether it’s classic films like It’s a Wonderful Life or newer hits like The Polar Express, there’s a holiday movie for everyone. This tradition often includes cozy blankets, hot cocoa, and popcorn, turning movie time into a festive event. Many families create a list of their favorite films to watch throughout December, making it a fun activity that’s enjoyed over several days. It’s a tradition that fosters relaxation, laughter, and a sense of togetherness.

Holiday movie marathons can be especially enjoyable for families with younger children, as they eagerly anticipate the chance to watch their favorite seasonal films. It’s also a great way to introduce newer generations to classic holiday movies. For added fun, families can discuss their favorite scenes or characters afterward. Whether you choose to watch movies every weekend or make it a nightly event leading up to Christmas, this tradition brings joy and a cozy holiday atmosphere. It’s a simple way to enjoy family time without any pressure.

Holiday Card Writing and Sending Tradition

Sending holiday cards is a tradition that many families continue each year, offering a way to spread joy and stay connected with loved ones. This tradition often includes a family photo or a handwritten note with well wishes for the season. It’s a heartfelt gesture that brings families together, whether they’re addressing envelopes or choosing the perfect card. Many families set aside an evening to write cards, making it a fun activity for all ages. It’s also a great way to involve children by having them help decorate or write messages.

In the age of digital greetings, sending physical cards has a special charm that feels more personal. Families can make the activity even more fun by creating custom cards or adding little treats like stickers. This tradition helps families reconnect with friends and relatives who may live far away, reminding them that they’re thought of during the holidays. Writing cards also encourages gratitude and reflection on the year that’s passed. It’s a meaningful tradition that fosters love and appreciation for those near and far.

Making Homemade Ornaments Together

Making homemade ornaments is a hands-on tradition that allows families to get creative while adding personal touches to their holiday decor. Whether it’s crafting ornaments from clay, felt, or natural materials, this tradition allows each family member to create something unique. The ornaments often serve as a reminder of the time spent together each year. It’s a fun activity for all ages and provides a lasting keepsake that can be hung on the tree year after year. Families can even choose a theme, like handmade stars or nature-inspired decorations.

These homemade ornaments are perfect for gift-giving or swapping with friends and family. The creative process also provides an opportunity for everyone to share their artistic side. This tradition is a great way to bond and create memories while crafting something meaningful. You can add a little extra magic by incorporating personalized touches, such as names or dates. The result is a collection of one-of-a-kind ornaments that hold special meaning for everyone involved.

Christmas Eve Family Dinner

Christmas Eve dinner is a beloved tradition in many households, offering a chance to gather and share a festive meal before Christmas Day. The meal often includes favorite family dishes, whether it’s a hearty roast or a seafood feast. It’s a time to reflect on the season, enjoy delicious food, and create memories with loved ones. Many families also have special customs, like opening one gift or reading a holiday story before or after the meal. The warmth and comfort of this meal bring everyone together, creating a sense of togetherness and holiday cheer.

The Christmas Eve dinner can vary from year to year, depending on family traditions or regional dishes. It’s an opportunity to try new recipes or perfect old favorites. Some families also incorporate a toast, offering well-wishes for the coming year. Whether it’s an elaborate spread or a simple meal, the emphasis is on being together and celebrating the season. This tradition provides a warm, intimate moment that marks the start of Christmas celebrations.

Holiday Charity or Volunteering Tradition

Many families enjoy giving back to their communities during the holiday season, whether through donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness. This tradition teaches children the importance of generosity and compassion. Families often choose a cause that’s meaningful to them, like volunteering at a food bank or donating toys to children in need. The act of helping others brings a sense of fulfillment and holiday spirit that goes beyond receiving gifts. It’s a wonderful way to bond while making a positive impact in your community.

Volunteering together creates lasting memories, and it can also help instill important values in younger family members. Some families set aside specific days during the month of December for their charity work, making it a regular part of their holiday traditions. Whether it’s participating in a toy drive or organizing a holiday meal for the less fortunate, these acts of kindness help spread joy to others. It’s a way to celebrate the season with generosity and thoughtfulness. This tradition can be carried out year after year, growing as children become old enough to participate.

Holiday Scavenger Hunt Tradition

A holiday-themed scavenger hunt is a fun way to engage children and keep them excited during the holiday season. This activity can involve finding specific decorations, small gifts, or holiday-themed items hidden around the house. Families can create clues based on holiday traditions or family memories, making the hunt more personalized. The hunt can be organized on Christmas Eve or as part of the holiday lead-up. It’s a great way to get everyone involved, especially younger children who love the thrill of a treasure hunt.

As families work together to find each clue, the activity fosters teamwork and problem-solving skills. You can customize the hunt by adding little treats or gifts along the way for extra excitement. This tradition can be simple or elaborate, depending on your time and resources. It adds an element of surprise and joy, making it a memorable part of the season. It’s an activity that’s fun for all ages and can be adapted to suit any family.

Holiday Gift Wrapping Party

Gathering the family to wrap gifts together is a fun and efficient way to prepare for the holiday season. This tradition makes the task of wrapping presents feel more like a party, especially when you include music, snacks, and plenty of cheer. It’s a chance to share creative wrapping ideas and to enjoy each other’s company before the big day. The act of wrapping gifts also provides a moment to reflect on the thought and care put into each present. Families often make it an event by exchanging wrapping ideas or even creating custom gift tags.

This tradition can also be a time for organizing gift exchanges or preparing presents for holiday charity events. Many families set aside a specific day to wrap together, turning the task into a fun, collaborative activity. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and cross off a holiday chore with some joy. With all the gifts wrapped and ready, there’s a satisfying sense of accomplishment and excitement for the upcoming festivities. This simple tradition adds an extra touch of holiday magic to the season.

Decorating Gingerbread Houses Together

Decorating gingerbread houses is a fun, interactive tradition that families of all ages can enjoy. Whether you purchase a kit or make your own gingerbread pieces, this activity encourages creativity and hands-on fun. The houses are often decorated with colorful candy, icing, and sprinkles, making them look festive and delicious. This tradition can turn into a friendly competition or just a fun, relaxing afternoon. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together while adding a homemade touch to holiday decor.

Building gingerbread houses also provides an opportunity for children to practice fine motor skills while adults help with design ideas. The best part? After the houses are decorated, they can be proudly displayed as part of the holiday decorations. Families often enjoy nibbling on the candy decorations once the houses are finished. This activity provides a creative outlet while bringing warmth and laughter to the season. It’s a holiday tradition that’s both fun and tasty.

Reading Christmas Stories or Holiday Books

Reading holiday books together is a wonderful way for families to slow down and enjoy quality time. Whether it’s classic tales like A Christmas Carol or fun picture books for younger children, holiday stories capture the magic of the season. Families often gather around the tree or in a cozy corner to read together, making it a calming, intimate tradition. It’s a great way to introduce new stories while also enjoying beloved classics year after year. The ritual of reading aloud helps create special memories that families can cherish.

Reading stories can also be a fun way to educate younger children about holiday traditions from different cultures. Many families have a collection of Christmas books that they bring out every year. It’s a nice way to wind down before bedtime, especially on busy holiday nights. With the warmth of the holidays surrounding you, this tradition feels like a moment of peace and togetherness. It’s a tradition that can be shared across generations, making it a meaningful part of family celebrations.

Family Christmas Eve Gift Exchange

Exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve has become a cherished tradition for many families. It allows families to enjoy the excitement of giving and receiving presents before Christmas Day. Often, families choose to exchange smaller, more meaningful gifts that reflect the spirit of the season. This tradition adds a sense of anticipation to the evening and sets the tone for Christmas Day celebrations. It’s a special way to start the holiday celebrations with your closest loved ones.

Many families incorporate unique rituals into their Christmas Eve gift exchange, like reading a holiday story or enjoying a special dinner beforehand. This tradition allows for a relaxed, joyful moment without the pressure of Christmas morning. Whether it’s something small or thoughtful, the exchange brings families together and makes the season feel more festive. This gift exchange has become a meaningful way to kick off the holidays. It’s a tradition that creates lasting memories for everyone involved.

Attending a Holiday Performance or Event

Going to a holiday concert, play, or light show is a magical way to get into the holiday spirit. Many families enjoy attending local performances of The Nutcracker, holiday concerts, or even outdoor festivals. These events often feature festive music, beautiful decorations, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether it’s a performance in a theater or an outdoor holiday market, it’s an activity that brings the whole family together. The experience is a great way to enjoy the season and create lasting memories.

Attending a holiday performance provides a chance to enjoy something special that only comes around once a year. Many communities offer free or affordable events, making it accessible for families of all budgets. After the event, families often gather for a meal or dessert, extending the joy of the outing. It’s a fun, easy way to add excitement to your holiday routine. This tradition helps build anticipation and excitement leading up to Christmas Day.

Holiday Themed Crafting Party

Hosting a holiday-themed crafting party is a creative way for families to bond over DIY projects. Whether it’s making Christmas ornaments, creating festive cards, or painting holiday decorations, crafting brings out everyone’s creativity. This tradition allows family members to share ideas and create something they can use as decorations or gifts. Priced affordably depending on the materials, crafting together is a budget-friendly tradition. It’s a fun way to spend time together while making personalized holiday items.

Crafting can be as simple or elaborate as you like, depending on your family’s interests. This tradition encourages teamwork, as family members help one another with different tasks. Plus, the homemade decorations or gifts make the holidays feel more personal and special. You can display the creations around the house or share them with others, spreading holiday cheer. It’s a tradition that’s both fun and meaningful, leaving everyone with something memorable to keep.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.